How can you design error messages that don't frustrate users in Web Applications?

1 Be clear and concise

The first rule of error messages is to be clear and concise. Avoid vague or technical terms that users might not understand, and use plain language that explains what went wrong and how to fix it. For example, instead of saying "Invalid input", say "Please enter a valid email address". Also, keep your error messages short and simple, and avoid unnecessary details or jargon. For example, instead of saying "The server encountered an unexpected condition that prevented it from fulfilling the request", say "Something went wrong. Please try again later".

2 Be polite and positive

The second rule of error messages is to be polite and positive. Avoid blaming or scolding users for their mistakes, and use a friendly and respectful tone that shows empathy and support. For example, instead of saying "You entered the wrong password", say "Sorry, that password doesn't match our records". Also, focus on the solution rather than the problem, and use positive words that encourage users to take action. For example, instead of saying "You can't proceed without filling out this field", say "Please fill out this field to continue".

3 Be helpful and informative

The third rule of error messages is to be helpful and informative. Provide users with clear and specific instructions on how to resolve the error, and offer alternative options or resources if possible. For example, instead of saying "This file is too large", say "This file is too large. Please choose a smaller file or compress it before uploading". Also, provide users with relevant and useful information that helps them understand the cause and impact of the error, and avoid generic or irrelevant messages that don't add value. For example, instead of saying "An error occurred", say "We couldn't connect to your bank account. Please check your internet connection and try again".

4 Be consistent and visible

The fourth rule of error messages is to be consistent and visible. Use a consistent style and format for your error messages, and follow the same conventions and guidelines across your web application. For example, use the same color, font, icon, and placement for your error messages, and avoid changing them without a good reason. Also, make sure your error messages are visible and noticeable, and avoid hiding them or making them hard to read. For example, use contrast, size, and position to draw attention to your error messages, and avoid using light colors, small fonts, or low opacity.

5 Be timely and relevant

The fifth rule of error messages is to be timely and relevant. Show your error messages at the right time and place, and avoid delaying or interrupting the user's flow. For example, show your error messages as soon as possible after the user makes a mistake, and avoid waiting until the user submits the form or completes the task. Also, show your error messages close to the source of the error, and avoid showing them in a separate window or page. For example, show your error messages next to the input field or button that caused the error, and avoid showing them at the top or bottom of the page.

6 Be adaptive and responsive

The sixth rule of error messages is to be adaptive and responsive. Design your error messages to fit different devices, browsers, and screen sizes, and avoid creating error messages that break the layout or functionality of your web application. For example, use responsive design techniques to make your error messages adjust to the available space and resolution, and avoid using fixed widths, heights, or positions. Also, design your error messages to respond to different user actions, inputs, and states, and avoid creating error messages that are outdated or irrelevant. For example, use dynamic validation to update your error messages as the user types, edits, or selects, and avoid showing error messages that are no longer applicable or accurate.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?